SOUTH AFRICA
COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
ABOUT
SOUTH AFRICA
The country that gave us Nelson Mandela and the Big Five doesn’t stick to one narrative. It tells them all at once.
South Africa is where wine country meets wildlife, where cities hum with art and struggle, and where coastline and savannah shake hands across the horizon. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey.
It’s where safaris deliver goosebumps, where braais turn into block parties, and where every local has a story that matters.
Here’s the thing about contrast. South Africa doesn’t shy away from it. Landscapes that shift by the hour. People who carry hope like a compass. And yes, that penguin colony lives on a sunny beach.
From Cape Town’s edge-of-the-world beauty to Kruger’s heartbeat of the wild, South Africa doesn’t just show up. It stands tall.
South Africa is for travelers who want it all in one place.
It’s for safari-goers, wine lovers, urban explorers, and coastal wanderers. For those who believe you can track lions by sunrise and sip chenin blanc by sunset.
This country offers contrasts with soul—grit with beauty, tradition with trend.
If you want your travel layered and full of life, South Africa is unmatched.
POPULAR DESTINATIONS IN
SOUTH AFRICA
PLACES TO SEE
Table Mountain
Take the cable car or hike up for one of the world’s most iconic city views.
Kruger National Park
A must for Big Five game drives and luxury safari lodges.
Robben Island Tour
The prison that held Nelson Mandela and learn about South Africa’s path to freedom.
Boulders Beach
Get up close to a colony of African penguins just outside Cape Town.
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Boutique shopping, dining, and museums on Cape Town’s harbor.
Stellenbosch
South Africa’s premier wine region with Dutch architecture and mountain-framed vineyards.
Garden Route
A coastal road trip full of natural beauty, charming towns, and outdoor adventure.
Soweto
Visit Mandela’s House and learn about the cultural impact of this iconic township.
Panorama Route
See Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window, and Bourke’s Luck Potholes.
Drakensberg Mountains Hike
Dramatic peaks and discover ancient San rock art.
Addo Elephant National Park
Home to over 600 elephants and the unique Big Seven.
Cederberg Explore
Surreal rock formations, ancient art, and remote wilderness north of Cape Town.
QUICK FACTS
GETTING AROUND
Between Cities
Fly between major cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban with frequent domestic routes. Roads are well-maintained, so renting a car is popular—especially for exploring the Garden Route or Winelands.
Around Cities
In Cape Town and Johannesburg, rideshare apps like Uber are reliable. Private drivers and group tours are ideal for excursions. Always opt for trusted transport providers when visiting townships or rural areas.
CRUISING & ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation
From art-filled boutique hotels in Cape Town to exclusive safari lodges tucked inside private reserves, South Africa’s accommodations combine style and soul. Wellness retreats, wine estate guesthouses, and cliffside villas round out the options.
Cruises
Cruise lines stop in Cape Town as part of African itineraries, offering excursions to the Cape of Good Hope, Robben Island, and the Winelands. Smaller expedition ships sometimes explore the coastlines for wildlife and cultural connections.
SHOP, EAT & DRINK
Shop
Beaded jewelry, woven baskets, hand-carved masks, and shweshwe textiles. Johannesburg and Cape Town both have excellent markets and design collectives.
Eat
Taste bobotie (curried mince with custard), bunny chow (a hollowed loaf filled with curry), or a traditional braai (South African BBQ).
Drink
Enjoy Chenin Blanc and Pinotage from Stellenbosch, local gin from Cape Town distilleries, or rooibos tea brewed fresh in the Cederberg Mountains.
TIME ZONE
South African Standard Time (SAST) is GMT+2. South Africa does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains the same year-round. The country shares this time zone with neighboring nations such as Botswana and Namibia, making travel between them simple.
RIDE SHARE & TAXIS
Uber and Bolt are widely used in cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg. Taxis are less common; private transfers are often arranged by hotels.
ELECTRICITY & PLUGS
Uber and Bolt are widely used in cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg. Taxis are less common; private transfers are often arranged by hotels.
CLIMATE
South Africa’s seasons are opposite to Europe and North America. Summer (November–March) is warm and ideal for coastal visits. Winter (June–August) is cool and dry—perfect for safaris. The Cape region gets winter rain, while Kruger stays mostly dry.
FILM/TV & FAMOUS FACES
South Africa has been a backdrop for District 9, Blood Diamond, and Invictus, with Cape Town and Johannesburg doubling for cities around the world. It’s home to stars like Charlize Theron, Trevor Noah, and Black Coffee, blending Hollywood, comedy, and global music.
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
Emergency Services (Nationwide): 10111 (Police), 10177 (Ambulance)
Tourism South Africa: +27 11 895 3000
Medical Emergency (Netcare 911): 082 911
Country Code: +27
POPULAR DESTINATIONS IN
SOUTH AFRICA
EXPERIENCES TO HAVE
Table Mountain cable car view
Safari in Kruger Park
Cape Point cliffs
Bo-Kaap colorful houses
Boulders Beach penguins
Wine estates in Stellenbosch
Drakensberg Mountains
Victoria Street Market in Durban
Panorama Route lookouts
Nelson Mandela’s home in Soweto
Camps Bay sunsets
Cederberg rock formations
YOU MIGHT BE WONDERING ABOUT
SOUTH AFRICA
FAQ's
Is South Africa safe for tourists?
Yes, in tourist-friendly areas. Take usual precautions—don’t walk alone at night and use trusted transport. Safari lodges and major cities are generally very safe for visitors.
How many days do I need in South Africa?
10–14 days allows for Cape Town, the Garden Route, and a safari. With more time, add Winelands, Durban, or the Drakensberg Mountains.
When is the best time to visit South Africa?
May–October for safari season. December–March for beach weather. Cape Town gets winter rains; Kruger stays mostly dry.
LEARN MORE ABOUT
TRAVELING IN
SOUTH AFRICA
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This trip changed us
It wasn’t just the scenery—it was the people, the history, the heart. South Africa gave us stories we’ll carry forever.
Anthony McLemore
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